Think tank

Writing in English as a non-native speaker

Five traps when writing as a non-native English speaker

Writing in English can be a daunting task if it’s not your mother tongue, especially in professional and academic settings where clear, error-free communication is crucial. If English is your second or even third language but you frequently have to write in it, it helps to know what to look out for so that you … Read More

Profile your target audience to create tailored content

Let’s say you work as a data scientist at a university, or at a company that develops medical technology. You’re invited to a dinner party where you meet new people. As is usually the case when we make new acquaintances, one of the first things they ask you is what you do for a living. … Read More

Creating content that captivates your audience

In our fast-paced digital world, grabbing and keeping the attention of your target audience is harder than ever – and therefore, more important than ever. With so much content in circulation across a wide array of platforms, how do you ensure that your article, post or research abstract is the one people choose to read? … Read More

How to use active and passive voice effectively

Your use of active and passive voice in your content can have a significant impact on the clarity and effectiveness of your message. It’s therefore important to understand the different purposes and nuances so that you can use these constructions effectively. What’s the difference between active and passive voice? The key difference between active and … Read More

Referencing in academic texts: Know your style(s)

In academic writing, accurate referencing is crucial to acknowledge the sources of information and ideas that you used in your research. Internationally, there are several commonly used referencing styles, each with their own rules regarding citation order, in-text citations, bibliography entries and more. Which one you use will depend on numerous factors, such as your … Read More

Gender-neutral writing: Fostering inclusivity and equality

Gender-neutral writing: Fostering inclusivity and equality

Gender-neutral writing challenges traditional linguistic norms by addressing the biases embedded in language. In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the importance of using gender-neutral language to promote inclusivity and equality. Why is gender-neutral writing important? Practical tips for gender-neutral writing 1. Use gender-neutral pronouns Replace gender-specific pronouns like “he” or “she” … Read More